Southport

Southport is one of the Gold Coast’s oldest suburbs. Situated in the north, the suburb has grown to be a centre for retail and business. Southport’s CBD hosts an abundance of businesses and services for locals and tourists alike. Ferry Rd is home to a number of large commercial areas and business opportunities exist in the area. There have been a number of major developments in the area including Southport Central, a $700 million development uniting residential, commercial and retail space that is still under construction. The suburb is home to the Southport Courthouse and many legal and accounting firms. Southport is bordered by the Broadwater to the east with views of Seaworld, Marina Mirage and the Spit. It is a five-minute drive from Surfers Paradise and is the starting point of the annual Gold Coast Marathon.

Residential

Southport has seen renewed urban development in the past few years. There is an abundance of suburban housing just minutes away from the hub of shopping centres and the Broadwater. Many older houses provide the opportunity for redevelopment. Limited land is available.

Shopping

Australia Fair Shopping Centre is the main centre in Southport with all the major stores one could need including Kmart, Woolworths and Coles as well as hundreds of specialty stores. Southport Mall, on the outside of Australia Fair, has been revamped recently and is now home to offices and restaurants. The Brickworks on Ferry Rd has a selection of homewares stores and factory outlet stores. Southport Centro is another good local shopping centre with a Target and a Woolworths and specialty stores.

Retirement

Trinity Gardens Aged Hostel has private rental accommodation with meals provided. Southport Lodge is a 33-bed hostel that offers rentals and is government approved. Southport Village offers one and two bedroom independent living villas. Villa La Salle Retirement Village offers one and two bedroom independent living. Golden Age Retirement Village has high and low-care facilities and one and two bedroom, independent living units.

Transport

There is no shortage of public transport through Southport. Buses run through Australia Fair constantly and it is a change point for those needing to transfer from one bus to another. Gold Coast bus, train and transport planners

Recreation

Southport is bordered by the Broadwater making it a popular area for families and adventure seekers alike. The swimming lagoon and playgrounds along the waterfront cater to children and ideal for picnics. The Broadwater is a good spot for fishing, boating, as well as other water sports. Southport hosts the annual Gold Coast Marathon which starts from the Broadwater Parklands precinct. There are many sporting facilities in the area including Owen Park which is home to the Gold Coast Touch Association and Southport Tigers Junior Rugby League Football Club. Other attractions include the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, on the Broadwater, Broadwater walking/cycle path, Southport Sharks Australian Rules Football Club and the Southport Yacht Club. Nearby Parklands hosts the annual Big Day Out concert and other shows.

Golf

Southport Golf Club is a premier 18-hole member owned club with a 5792 metre par 71 Championship layout. Visitors are welcome so long as they are a member of another club.